Ukraine's military Starlink service was abruptly restricted, limiting speeds to 160 km/h, disrupting critical operations including drone missions and logistics. The move, attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump's influence, has raised concerns over its impact on Ukraine's defense capabilities.
SpaceX implemented the speed cap on Oct. 14, affecting military terminals and causing signal instability. Elon Musk stated that Trump holds ultimate authority over Starlink's usage, with restrictions aimed at preventing offensive military actions. Ukraine's Defense Ministry confirmed the issue, noting speeds were lower than the limit.
The disruption has hindered Ukraine's ability to conduct mid-range strike operations and intercept Russian drones, complicating frontline efforts. Despite service restoration, the speed restriction remains in place, raising questions about the U.S. government's control over critical military infrastructure.
Ukraine's Defense Minister reported ongoing issues with Starlink connectivity, with military units reporting canceled missions due to the restrictions. The incident underscores tensions between U.S. policy and Ukraine's reliance on Starlink for defensive and offensive operations.